Local SPCA seeking public help to care for puppies

By Mike Pickford

The Ontario SPCA's Orangeville & District Animal Centre is appealing to the public for financial assistance after 16 puppies came into its care this month.

Undergoing what has been called a “puppy boom” by Animal Centre manager Calla Spencer, the unprecedented anomaly has left the local shelter short on supplies as it aims to take proper care of the animals.

“Caring for so many puppies at one time is taxing on animal centre resources, which is why we're asking for the public's help,” Ms. Spencer said. “We're hoping our community will assist us in our efforts to give all of these dogs a second chance at life in a loving home.”

Among the 16 are six puppies born in early June while in foster care. Five of the 16 have also since been adopted into loving homes. The most recent addition to the centre is a small Chihuahua that was only a few days old and wouldn't nurse from its own mother. In urgent need of nutrients, the puppy was introduced to ‘Zebra' a mother dog with six puppies who accepted him as one of her own.

The length of care is longer for nursing mothers and their puppies, which means their stay exceeds the typical cost of care for a dog. In addition to that intensive care, they also require vaccinations and parasite treatments. Once the dogs are old enough they are also microchipped and spayed or neutered before being placed up for adoption.

As well as accepting monetary donations to help with the cost of care, the centre is also seeking several “wish list” items to assist with the puppies' enrichment and training. Things such as small tennis balls, puppy toys, extra small and small-size Kongs are listed, as are dog treats, puppy beds and puppy collars and smaller leashes.

Wish list items can be dropped off at the animal centre, located at 650 Riddell Rd. in Orangeville. To donate, or look into the possibility of adopting an animal, visit orangeville.ontariospca.ca.